We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Warren Thacker a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Warren, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

As an adult, I have tried to maintain an environment for growth in all aspects of my life. I love learning new skills, challenging myself, and expressing myself creatively. A few years ago I developed a desire to make a knife. Having no prior experience and not knowing anyone else that did that, I found books and YouTube videos to get me started. After acquiring some equipment and a year of practicing what I was learning, I took a couple classes with a Master Smith. This was the game changer for me, and I am glad I waited until I had some practical experience. Since then, I have continued to learn through experience and the growing network I have been fortunate enough to develop. I am sure there are more intensive methods to learning the craft of blacksmithing and knife making. There are colleges and schools across the country, but I have already been to college and my experience as a business owner and employee has shown me that, often times, good, hands-on experience has been more valuable to me. Also, when I began, I owned a small, successful business that would have made school and the travel necessary unfeasible. So, instead of school, I committed the majority of my evenings and most weekends to learning the craft.
Conveniently, the most essential skill in my mind is the ability to make the commitment and do the work. Just like with any creative skill, talent is only a small part. The rest is diligent, consistent work. My meticulous mind thrives on having a process, so while the end result or initial concept is rooted in art, the way to create that work is completing the steps to get there. That commitment and desire to learn will get you out in the shop working and learning everyday despite the 10 hour day I just did at work or the pull to watch TV and do nothing.
At first, I believe my ignorance was my main obstacle. Being that I was not familiar with the work, I often did not know how to look up, find, and acquire the information I was seeking. Also, finances can limit certain equipment purchases or class opportunities, but the commitment and drive mentioned above forced me to find creative solutions to some of those. People were forging tools and knives long before power tools and electricity, you just have to get creative.

Warren, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have always liked to tinker with and fix things. As a U.S. Marine, I learned to adapt to my environment and overcome obstacles. I’ve worked as a graphic designer, carpenter, and landscaper prior to venturing into knife making. It gives me the opportunity to continue to express myself creatively while providing me the challenges necessary to improve my skills as a craftsman. I make high quality, handmade knives. My current focus is kitchen cutlery and primarily Damascus steel knives. These knives are functional pieces of art and every Damascus pattern turns out a little differently making each piece truly unique. Each piece is handcrafted in Tennessee with care and close attention to detail. These knives have my name on them and are a reflection of my work. No knife leaves the shop unless I would be proud to own it myself.
I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to utilize my skills in this way and I am appreciative of everyone that has supported my work over the last few years. Without that encouragement, I would not have made the plunge into full-time knife making.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

I have never really considered myself a “creative” so I thought I could share some insight on this question. I don’t think many non-creatives understand the amount work we still have invest, even if you have a knack for something creative. I talk to many people that believe it “comes naturally” but they are not accounting for the countless hours I’ve worked on elevating my craft. Sure, some elements come more easily, but nothing will replace persistence and hard work.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

This question could spawn a whole list of things, but main thing for me was the existence of a Blacksmith Guild in my area. I have learned so much from the wealth of knowledge these folks bring. They are friendly and generous with their knowledge and resources. It was also a great way to build my network, get information about nearby events (festivals, workshops, etc.) and a great way to find equipment and tools. Many of the members have been successful craftsmen for decades, and they know how to do many different things. Or, at least, they know someone who can do it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thackerknives.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thacker.knives/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thackerknives/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thacker-knives/

Image Credits
Warren Thacker